In this guide, you can find instructions on password managers recommended by the University of Tartu.

The University of Tartu recommends that passwords saved in web browsers should be exported and moved to a password manager (check Export and import passwords).

It is recommended to keep data for logging into the University of Tartu systems in a password manager.Password managers are secure software applications that can be used to manage and securely store passwords. These apps give you the ability to create strong passwords and store them securely, so you don't have to worry about remembering or losing them.The University of Tartu recommends password managers Bitwarden, LastPass, KeePassXC and iCloud Keychain.

Before choosing a password manager, you should research its advantages and limitations and make sure that the password manager you choose meets your needs and preferences.

LastPass and Bitwarden are both popular password managers, but it's important to remember that they are cloud-based solutions. This means that passwords are stored on LastPass/Bitwarden servers, which may pose some security risks.
To get a stronger protection, we recommend using KeePassXC.

Password managers: pros, cons and summary

Pros:

Open-source and transparent
Offers a free version with most features
Syncs across devices
Can be used offline
Smart device applications available
Chrome, Firefox, Edge and Safari extensions are available

Cons:

Some users report difficulty with the user interface
Limited support for some features

Summary: Bitwarden is ideal for users who want an open-source and transparent option that offers a good balance of features and cost. It has a free version with most features and syncs across devices.

Pros:

User-friendly interface and easy to set up
Supports multi-factor authentication
Auto-fills passwords on websites and apps
Syncs across devices
Smart device applications available
Chrome, Firefox and Edge extensions are available

Cons:

There have been errors in the use of the service in the past
The free version only allows one device type (for example only computers or only smart devices)
The premium version can be expensive
No option to use offline

Summary: LastPass is best for users who prioritize ease of use and seamless integration with websites and apps. It's user friendly, supports multi-factor authentication, and syncs across devices.

Pros:

Open-source and free
Advanced security features
Customizable database format
Supports auto-filling passwords
Syncs across devices (with third-party sync tools)
Smart device applications available
Chrome, Firefox and Edge extensions are available

Cons:

Can be more complex to set up than other options
Syncing across devices requires third-party tools
No official support for Internet Explorer or Safari browsers

Summary: KeePassXC is a highly customizable and secure option that offers auto-filling passwords and syncs across devices with third-party tools. It's best for users who prioritize security and customization but are willing to invest more time in the initial setup. It also offers smart device applications and browser extensions for Chrome, Firefox and Edge.
If stronger security is needed and you want to be in complete control of your passwords, KeePassXC is the best choice.

Pros:

User-friendly interface and easy to set up
Supports multi-factor authentication
Auto-fills passwords on websites and apps
Syncs across devices
Smart device applications available
Safari, Chrome, Firefox and Edge extensions are available

Cons:

Can only be used with Apple devices
No option to use offline

Summary: Keychain is best suited for users of the Apple ecosystem. It is preinstalled on any Apple device. Keychain is easily accessible on Mac and iOS devices and also supports multi-factor authentication. Keychain syncs across all Apple devices and allows for secure storage and sharing of various authentication credentials.

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Additional materials:

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University of Tartu IT wiki

Password managers: pros, cons and summary

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